Red light accidents are a common occurrence in the US and oftentimes result in a preventable fatality. In 2019, over 800 people were killed due to accidents involving running a red light. Arizona is in the top ten states for most red light accident fatalities. With this in mind, there are a number of strategies that may help prevent red light accidents and help you avoid injury or fatality as a result.
At Feller & Wendt, we are adamant advocates of those affected by personal injury and wrongful death accidents as a result of negligence. If you have been substantially injured in an accident because of another individual’s actions, speak with a skilled Arizona personal injury lawyer at Feller & Wendt. We offer thorough, complimentary consultations to go over the details of your case and assist you in deciding the ideal course of action moving forward.
Why Arizona Drivers Run Red Lights
There are numerous reasons as to why a driver may decide to run a red light. Simply put, some negligent drivers are in a hurry and may be careless in following traffic laws. Reasons may include:
- Late to work or school
- Under the influence
- Lack of sleep
- Distracted driving
- Speeding or making a left turn last minute
- Aggressive driving
Violation of traffic laws, including running a red light, can have substantial negative consequences for drivers. In addition to potentially paying the cost of damages in an accident, drivers may also be charged high fines, given demerit points on their driving record, and sometimes taking a driver’s safety course. If an Arizona accident results in a wrongful death, penalties are much more severe and can include criminal charges.
If you have been in a red light accident involving a negligent driver, speak to an experienced car accident lawyer at Feller & Wendt for a chance to recover necessary compensation for losses you have sustained in the preventable accident.
Injuries Sustained in Arizona Red Light Accidents
Depending on the circumstances of the red light accident, such as speed traveling and impact, injuries can range from being mild to catastrophic for the victim. When you are terribly injured in an accident, it is important to seek medical attention and call law enforcement right away.
Arizona red light accident injuries may include:
- Brain damage
- Spinal cord damage
- Back and neck damage
- Paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Concussions
- Contusions
- Lacerations
- Broken and crushed bones
- Death
If you are able to do so, it may be beneficial to take pictures and videos of the accident in order to have evidence for a personal injury claim down the road. If any witnesses are available, obtain their contact information. At Feller & Wendt, we can handle every aspect of your case in order to help obtain the favorable outcome you deserve.
3 Tips for Preventing Red Light Accidents in Arizona
In order to protect yourself from an Arizona red light accident, it is essential to remember that even if you tread carefully, there are drivers on the road that may not uphold the same duty of care.
These tips may help reduce red light accidents from occurring and prevent serious injuries in the future:
1. Obey Arizona Speed Limits
It’s essential to obey Arizona speed limits because they are enforced for your safety in mind. Avoid speeding through intersections, especially through yellow lights. Slow down to allow for time to react to any unforeseen emergencies that may arise.
2. Avoid Distractions
When traveling in high traffic conditions and through red lights, it is vital to stay alert and avoid distractions. Distractions may include messing with the radio, eating, texting, or having conversations with other occupants in the car.
3. Pause Before Proceeding
Before proceeding forward when the light turns green, pause for a moment to avoid any drivers speeding through the intersection. This tip can help you avoid catastrophic accidents when drivers opt to run red lights.
Speak With an Experienced Arizona Car Accident Lawyer at Feller & Wendt
If you have been substantially injured due to a negligent driver running a red light, speak to an experienced Arizona car accident lawyer at Feller & Wendt. We have over 70 years of combined experience, a 95% case success rate, and we will work tirelessly for the justice you deserve.
At Feller & Wendt, we are passionate advocates of those affected by personal injury and wrongful death accidents as a result of negligence. If you have been terribly injured in a red light accident, speak to a skilled Arizona personal injury lawyer for a thorough, complimentary consultation of your case. We go over the details of your claim and give you strategic guidance going forward so you may obtain the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (480) 702-2277 or fill out our contact form.
